Neil Ervin and Katie Treece in a scene from "Handler." Photo by Stephen M. Wilson.
Pellissippi State Community College will present five performances of “Handler”—as in snake handler—by Robert Schenkkan in the Clayton Performing Arts Center on the Pellissippi Campus on Hardin Valley Road this month and next.
The performances are at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 25, March 26, April 1, and April 2. Another performance is set for 2 p.m. Sunday, April 3.
“Handler” is a story about forgiveness. Geordi has just been released from prison, and his wife is a devoted member of the Holiness Way sect. When Geordi unexpectedly handles snakes at a service for the first time, he’s bitten and dies. Three days later, he’s resurrected from his coffin. What is to become of Geordi now? What does this miracle bring?
Playwright Schenkkan is best known for “The Kentucky Cycle,” which was awarded the Pulitzer Prize.
The veteran cast includes Katie Treece, Neil Ervin, Don Kapa and students from Pellissippi State’s Theatre program. The production features original music performed by the well-known Knoxville singer/songwriter David O’Dell. It is directed by Steven McBride.
Tickets are available at the Clayton Performing Arts Center Box Office 30 minutes before each show. The performances are free, but donations will be accepted at the door at the following rates: $8 for Pellissippi State students and faculty, $10 for area students and seniors, and $12 general admission. All proceeds go to the Pellissippi State Foundation to support the Theatre program and scholarships.
For more information call (865) 694-6684.